Depression

Depression is quite different from just feeling sad. Sadness is a normal human state. Depression can creep up gradually and can range from mild depression, where there is some impact on your daily life, to severe depression, where normal daily life is virtually impossible.

Causes

Difficult events such as bereavement, divorce, physical accidents or illness can trigger a grief reaction. This usually lifts within six months to a year but in some cases can progress into depression.

Depression can be caused by a genetic predisposition. If your parents or siblings suffer from depression, you are at greater risk. It can also be caused by biochemical factors involving serotonin, which can lead to depression occurring without any obvious reasons.

Symptoms

People who have depression tend to have a combination of symptoms including low mood, loss of energy, loss of enjoyment or feeling pleasure, altered appetite, disrupted sleep, poor concentration and motivation, a loss of libido, a negative outlook and in some cases thoughts and ideas of suicide. The features are usually present for a period of at least a fortnight.

Treatment

Our consultants are highly experienced in diagnosing and treating depression. In the first instance, it may be appropriate for you to go and talk to your GP. Mild depression may improve by itself and your GP can monitor your progress. Exercise has also been proven to help with depression and there are some self-help treatments available.

Should your depression be moderate to severe, you will usually be referred by your GP or consultant psychiatrist for talking therapy such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. If your depression is severe or has gone on for a long time, the use of medication in the form of anti-depressants may be advised.

Anti-depressants may take several weeks to work and you will need to be regularly monitored. Although anti-depressants are not addictive, you should always talk to your GP or consultant if you are thinking of stopping them. You will need an adequate dosage for an adequate length of time (usually six months).

Initial consultations include 60 minutes with the consultant psychiatrist, a written treatment plan, a letter to the GP (with patient’s agreement) and a written prescription, if applicable.

ADHD Assessments

1.5 hour consultation and report £650

Please note, it is our policy that appointment fees for all appointments are paid in advance. Payments can be made by cheque or most major credit/debit cards.

Private Health Insurance
Patients with private health insurance, such as BUPA, may be able to claim the costs of their treatment from their health insurance provider. Normally a referral letter from your GP will be required to do this. Please contact your health insurance provider direct to confirm whether your treatment would be covered.

Standard Occupational Health Report - £950.

This price may vary for more complicated cases. Please contact us to discuss your requirements in more detail or for more information.

Details of fees for psychiatric Medico-legal Reports are available on request. Please contact us for further details.